Avoid awkward moments
and connect better with locals in South Korea.
Traveling to Korea?
Beyond the food, temples, and high-tech cities,
there’s something you shouldn’t miss—
Korean culture and etiquette.
Understanding local customs can help
you avoid uncomfortable moments
and show respect to the people around you.
Here are 10 essential Korean etiquette tips
that every first-time visitor should know.
1. Always greet with a slight bow
A small bow is a sign of respect. You don't need to go deep—just a nod or waist-level bow is enough.
Koreans bow when they say hello, thank you, or goodbye.
Tip: Combine the bow with a friendly “Annyeonghaseyo” (Hello).
2. Use both hands when giving or receiving
Whether you're handing someone money, a gift, or even a business card—use both hands.
It’s seen as polite and respectful.
Also: If using only one hand, support your wrist with your other hand as a sign of respect.
3. Take off your shoes indoors
Never walk into a Korean home with shoes on.
Many guesthouses, cafés, and traditional restaurants also ask you to remove them.
Look for: Slippers near the door—they're a clear sign!
4. Don’t stick chopsticks upright in rice
This resembles a funeral ritual in Korea and is considered very bad manners.
Always rest your chopsticks on the side of a bowl or on a chopstick holder.
5. Drinking? Follow the unspoken rules
Don’t pour your own drink
Always use both hands when pouring for someone older
Turn your head slightly away when drinking in front of elders
It’s all about showing humility and respect.
6. Age matters
Age plays a big role in Korean culture—people often ask your age early in a conversation.
It’s not rude—it helps determine how to speak with proper respect.
7. Don’t tip (usually)
Tipping isn’t common in Korea and can sometimes even confuse service staff.
Good service is expected without tips.
Exception: Some luxury hotels or international restaurants may include a service charge.
8. Use polite speech with strangers
Even if you're speaking English, using polite language and body gestures is appreciated.
If you know basic Korean, use -yo endings (e.g., gamsahamnida instead of gomawo).
9. Be quiet on public transport
Talking loudly on buses or subways is frowned upon.
Keep phone conversations short or text instead.
10. Don’t point your finger or beckon with palm up
Pointing at people or using a “come here” gesture with your palm facing up is seen as impolite.
Use your whole hand with palm down when signaling.
Bonus Tips for First-Time Visitors
Try to learn 2–3 Korean words
(hello, thank you, sorry)
Watch how locals act in restaurants and copy them
If unsure, just smile and bow slightly—it goes a long way!
Korean culture is rooted in respect,
modesty, and harmony.
By following just a few etiquette tips,
you'll not only avoid awkward situations
but also earn the appreciation of locals.
Being a mindful guest makes
your Korean journey more meaningful.
